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Indulge in this Healthy Vegan Hot Chocolate, which is WFPB and refined sugar-free. It’s rich and naturally sweetened, making it the perfect cozy treat!
Nothing beats a warm mug of hot chocolate on a cold day, especially when it’s made from wholesome ingredients that nourish your body.
This Healthy Vegan Hot Chocolate is silky, rich, and chocolatey, with a perfect balance of sweetness and warmth. Unlike store-bought mixes loaded with refined sugars and artificial flavors, this homemade version is WFPB, naturally sweetened, and free from dairy.
I grew up loving hot chocolate, but traditional recipes always left me sluggish. That’s why I adapted this delicious, nutrient-rich version, which fuels your body with clean ingredients.
It’s so easy to make, and you probably have everything in your pantry already!
So, grab your favorite mug, and let’s make the best healthy hot chocolate together!
WHAT ALLERGENS/INGREDIENTS IS THIS RECIPE FREE FROM?
This Recipe is vegan and:
- Dairy-Free
- Refined Sugar-Free
- Gluten-Free
- Soy-Free (if using a soy-free plant-based milk)
- Nut-Free (if omitting almond butter and using a nut-free plant-based milk)
WHY THIS RECIPE WORKS AND WHY IS GOOD FOR YOU
This recipe is:
Naturally Sweetened – No refined sugar, just the natural sweetness of maple syrup.
Antioxidant-Rich – Cacao powder is loaded with antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation.
Creamy Without Dairy—This recipe has a silky texture thanks to almond butter (optional) and plant-based milk.
Customizable – Adjust sweetness, spice it up with cinnamon, or add a hint of vanilla for depth.
Quick & Easy – Only 5 minutes to prepare!
HOW TO PREPARE THIS VEGAN HOT CHOCOLATE
(Please read the printable recipe card below for detailed ingredients, measurements, steps, and notes).
This hot chocolate comes together in just one pot with simple, everyday ingredients. Just whisk, heat, and enjoy!
Let’s explore kitchen tools, the required ingredients, and the steps with helpful pictures if needed.
USEFUL KITCHEN EQUIPMENT
Here’s what you’ll need to make this recipe:
- Small saucepan – To heat everything to the perfect temperature.
- Whisk – To blend the cacao powder smoothly.
- Measuring spoons and cups – For accurate ingredient portions.
Now, let’s review the list of ingredients and potential substitutions in some cases.
INGREDIENTS NOTES
Here is a list of everything you will need to prepare this recipe:
- Unsweetened plant-based milk – Almond, oat, or soy milk works great.
- Unsweetened cacao powder—For that deep, rich chocolate flavor, you can also use cocoa powder, but cacao powder is less processed.
- Pure maple syrup – A natural sweetener that blends beautifully without refined sugar.
- Vanilla extract – Adds warmth and depth to the chocolate flavor.
- Ground cinnamon (optional) – Adds a warm spice that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
- Unsweetened almond butter (optional) – Makes the hot chocolate richer. You can also use cashew butter or skip it entirely.
DIRECTIONS
To prepare this healthy hot chocolate, follow these steps:
Warm the plant-based milk in a small saucepan over medium-low heat until hot but not boiling.
Whisk in the cacao powder, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and cinnamon (if using).
If using almond butter, add it now and whisk until fully incorporated.
Continue whisking for 2–3 minutes until the mixture is smooth. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed by adding more maple syrup.
Pour into mugs and enjoy warm! You can add whipped coconut cream, cinnamon, or any other topping you choose.
RECIPE TIPS & VARIATIONS
- For extra richness, use coconut lite milk or add more almond butter.
- For a mocha twist, stir in a shot of espresso or some brewed coffee.
- For an iced version, let it cool and serve over ice!
- For a holiday vibe, add a pinch of nutmeg or peppermint extract.
- Top it with a dollop of whipped coconut cream – For an extra indulgent and creamy texture.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can store it in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat it on the stovetop.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat as needed.
MORE CHOCOLATE RECIPES TO TRY!
WATCH THE STEP-BY-STEP VIDEO!
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PRINTABLE RECIPE CARD
HEALTHY VEGAN HOT CHOCOLATE (WFPB, Refined sugar-free)
Equipment
- 1 Small saucepan (To heat everything to the perfect temperature)
- 1 Whisk (To blend the cacao powder smoothly)
Ingredients
- 2 cups unsweetened plant-based milk (such as almond, oat, or soy)
- 3 Tbsp unsweetened cacao powder
- 2 Tbsp pure maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1 ½ tsp unsweetened almond butter (optional for extra richness)
Instructions
- In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, warm the plant-based milk until hot but not boiling.
- Whisk in the cacao powder, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon (if using), and salt.
- If using almond butter, add it now and whisk until fully incorporated.
- Continue whisking for 2–3 minutes until smooth and creamy.
- Taste and adjust sweetness if needed by adding more maple syrup.
- Pour into mugs and enjoy warm.
Notes
- For extra richness, use coconut lite milk or add more almond butter.
- For a mocha twist, stir in a shot of espresso or some brewed coffee.
- For an iced version, let it cool and serve over ice!
DID YOU MAKE THIS HEALTHY VEGAN HOT CHOCOLATE?
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